SPOTLIGHTS
- The workshop focused on raising awareness of public health laws and policies
- The Law on Highly Infectious Diseases 2020 was a key focus, including penalties for violations
- Stakeholders called for community engagement and government action to address various public health concerns
From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
In response to recurring outbreaks of public health concern in Benue State, the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre at the state Ministry of Health organised a sensitisation workshop in Makurdi on Wednesday. The workshop focused on policy and legal measures designed to support public health actions in the state.
Dr. Igbabul Shember, Director of Public Health at the Ministry, explained that the workshop aimed to raise awareness among stakeholders about these measures.
Represented by the Assistant State Epidemiologist, Dr. Ijabo Henry Ijabo, Dr. Shember emphasised the collective responsibility of public health and the need to engage all levels of stakeholders in public awareness efforts. He called for collaborative action to address public health issues and create a healthier Benue.
During the workshop, Barr. Terfa Suswam, Director of Legal Services at the Ministry of Health, and Barr. Terna Gwa presented overviews of the Law on Highly Infectious Diseases 2020, other relevant public health laws, and the legal measures and penalties that support these laws.
Barr. Suswam highlighted the importance of understanding the law, the powers granted to health workers, and the offences and corresponding punishments outlined within it.
She explained that the law stipulates a five-year prison sentence without the option of a fine for anyone misappropriating funds intended for managing highly infectious disease outbreaks. It also prescribes penalties for individuals who violate restriction orders or spread false information, causing public panic or unrest.
Barr. Suswam encouraged the public to familiarise themselves with the law and its implications for all residents of Benue State.
Stakeholders from various sectors, including traditional institutions, legal practitioners, security agencies, civil society organisations (CSOs), and the media, participated in the workshop. They advocated for robust monitoring, investigation, and implementation of these measures to build public trust.
The participants pledged to disseminate the information within their communities and report any violations. They also expressed their willingness to assist in legal proceedings to ensure the prosecution of offenders.
The stakeholders raised concerns about other public health issues, such as indiscriminate waste disposal in Makurdi, open defecation, poor hygiene among roadside food vendors, and the reluctance of some health practitioners to work in rural areas. They appealed to the government to address these issues for improved public health in the state.